A simple explanation of what a quantum computer is, without going into quantum states, parallel universes and super position, is that they will be computers that will exponentially expand our computing power beyond todays classical computers. A quantum computer is not a general purpose computer but a computing device.
Quantum computer power is measured in quantum bits – qubits – each qubit added to a machine doubles the machine’s capability. It is these use of multiple qubits, interacting, that expands the computing power. The last minute of the video below talks about the phenomena that makes computing with a qubit so powerful.
This power has the potential to break the current state of cryptography – so no more encryption security when you buy groceries or bank online. No more end to end encryption (E2EE) on your text messages or video calls – this would make the EU happy but not the rest of us!
So people are starting to think about this future state of computing – vendors and computer experts are examining the science and beginning to create mitigations. Politician are making great claims and promises.
White House: Quantum computers could crack encryption, so here’s what we need to do | ZDNet
Of course this qubit power would also be used in making new qubit secure cryptography.
Clive Catton MSc (Cyber Security) – by-line and other articles
